Care At The Chemist (Minor Ailment Service) - Knowsley

The NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board (ICB) has completed the procurement process under the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023, awarding the "Care At The Chemist - Knowsley" contract. This health services contract, classified under CPV code 85100000, covers multiple pharmacies across Knowsley within the Cheshire and Merseyside region, offering community pharmacy consultations for minor ailments. The procurement stage is marked as complete, with the contract having commenced on 1st April 2024 and expired on 31st March 2025.

Key decisions were approved by the Finance, Investment, Resources Committee on 12th March 2024, with special attention to conflict of interest policies. The procurement method used was a limited award procedure without prior publication of a call for competition. This tender presents opportunities for both small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large businesses within the pharmacy sector to expand into providing essential healthcare services.

Pharmacies equipped to manage minor ailment consultations can benefit from involvement in this scheme to enhance their service offerings, particularly in areas where patients increasingly prefer consulting pharmacists over general practitioners for such services. The direct award nature of this procurement facilitates easier access for pharmacies that meet the criteria and are strategically located within the designated region. Businesses focusing on health service delivery are well-positioned to compete for similar future opportunities, further contributing to the growing trend of community-based healthcare provisions.